How to Have Fun and Be Safe During Family Gatherings This Holiday
After such a turbulent year it’s normal to want to see your family and friends and get into the holiday spirit. Here are some tips for staying safe while making memories.
- Don’t attend a gathering with anyone who has COVID-19 or has been exposed to the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends checking the COVID-19 infection rates in the area where you will be attending the holiday gathering.
- Wear a mask at the gathering and remember no handshakes, hugs or high-fives. As much as you’ll want to embrace your loved ones and friends and show them you care, an alternative to a warm hug could be a dance-off at the door, offer a random act of kindness such as helping set the table, or by bringing a personalized gift.
- Avoid crowded gatherings, keep the celebration small. Good things come in small packages, like your celebration. Anxious about not seeing your bestie or favorite aunt? Some ideas for setting up a virtual holiday party with friends and family are: a photo slideshow through the years, impromptu holiday themed poetry reading, virtual karaoke of Christmas carols, a paint and sip party (maybe everyone paints a snowman), or ask everyone to bring a holiday joke.
- “Sharing isn’t always caring.” Keep everyone safe and skip sharing food or serving platters this holiday. Ask guests to bring their own favorite meal for themselves to devour. While enjoying a meal together, sit with your friends and family six feet apart. The CDC recommended using disposable plates and utensils.
While the dinner table may look different, creating a memorable toast and sharing stories or memories can still be fun. - Designate someone to bring the jokes or a fun board game. The pandemic can mean finding new ways to spend time together and make new memories. Looking for some new holiday games? How about Christmas Carol Pictionary, or “guess the classic Christmas movie” with only emojis giving out the clues. Here are more holiday games to try.
Every household is different and has different needs, the CDC recommends doing what is best for your family this holiday. More recommendations on staying safe this holiday can be found here.
Happy holidays and here’s to the New Year!